Jesus encouraged His disciples to “bear much fruit” (John 15:8).
Peter urged believers to “add to your faith virtue [courage and determination], to virtue knowledge” (2 Peter 1:5). He told Christians to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18).
Paul warned that “we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro… with every wind of doctrine… but … grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ” (Ephesians 4:14-15). Paul already had extensive religious training, yet he continued his religious education after his conversion by looking to senior teachers in the faith for guidance (Galatians 1:13-19).
Apollos also grew on the job as a preacher by listening to advice from more experienced teachers (Acts 18:24-28).
As Christians, we must continue to grow so that God can use us to serve others and reach this world with a powerful and relevant message about Jesus Christ and the coming Kingdom of God. Let’s ask God to help us grow mentally and spiritually as individuals, and to help us grow as His Church so we can be a more effective instrument in His hands to accomplish His purpose on this earth.
